Farm Journal Announces Michelle Rook as Host of AgriTalk PM
Kansas City, MO., (April 9, 2026) – Farm Journal, the premier source for business insights and data in American agriculture, is making significant changes to its AgriTalk program. Beginning this Monday, Michelle Rook will take the helm as the new host of AgriTalk PM, focusing on crucial commodity market analysis tailored for farmers and agribusiness professionals. Original host Chip Flory will transition to concentrate on AgriTalk AM while continuing to contribute as a guest analyst and fill-in host for the afternoon program.
Strengthening Agricultural Insights
This transition is part of Farm Journal’s strategic investment in AgriTalk, which stands as agriculture’s only national radio talk show and a popular podcast in the sector. By merging two of the most respected voices in agricultural radio, this move aims to enhance the delivery of timely and accurate information.
Leadership Commentary
Chris Seper, Executive Vice President of Farm Journal Brands, expressed optimism about the change. “This allows Flory to further concentrate on AgriTalk AM’s quality and growth while maintaining his broader role across Farm Journal,” he noted. Flory will also continue representing Farm Journal at events nationwide and leading the annual Pro Farmer Crop Tour each August.
Rook’s appointment builds on the success of her well-received Markets Now platform. Alongside her new role, she will also host two Markets Now podcasts each weekday and lead the daily market analysis on AgDay.
Industry Reactions
Expressing her enthusiasm, Rook stated, “I’m excited to step into this role and connect with the AgriTalk audience in a new way. Markets are moving faster than ever, and farmers need clear, actionable insight. AgriTalk PM is a powerful platform to deliver that every day.”
Flory remarked, “Farm Journal wanted to bring practical, in-depth, and meaningful market information to farm radio, and we’ve achieved that. I look forward to working alongside Michelle to continue that conversation.”
Seper added, “Michelle brings years of experience covering agricultural markets and is widely respected for her depth of knowledge, making her a natural fit for AgriTalk PM. Her involvement strengthens our ability to provide farmers and agribusiness professionals with timely, trusted insights.”
AgriTalk’s Outreach
AgriTalk reaches over 75,000 farmers during its two live broadcasts each weekday, airing on more than 100 affiliates across 19 states. The program is also available on-demand through major podcast platforms, Farm Journal TV, and Farm Journal NOW. Alongside Markets Now, it remains one of the most listened-to programs within the Farm Journal Podcast Network, with each episode generating over 100,000 downloads monthly.
Looking Ahead
This expansion highlights Farm Journal’s commitment to AgriTalk as the leading national voice in agricultural radio and podcasting. With Rook and Flory sharing hosting duties, the program is well-positioned to provide deeper, real-time market insights for farmers facing increasingly complex and volatile conditions.
About Farm Journal
Farm Journal is the nation’s foremost business information and media company serving the agricultural market. Catering to the row crop, livestock, produce, and retail sectors, the company operates through branded websites, eNewsletters, mobile apps, business magazines, live events, and nationally broadcast television and radio programs. Additionally, Farm Journal oversees an array of data-driven, paid information products and owns the online equipment marketplace, Machinery Pete LLC. The company also leads Trust In Food, an initiative dedicated to promoting conservation practices and regenerative agriculture. Furthermore, Farm Journal established the non-profit, public charity, Farm Journal Foundation in 2010, focused on empowering agriculture to meet the vital needs of a growing population through education and outreach.
